Stocking and Handling-Induced Stress in Hatchery-Reared Fingerling Red Drum
Date
1985-08
Authors
Caldwell, Colleen Ann
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Abstract
Stress induced by handling, hauling, and net confinement as evaluated in red drum fingerling, Sciaenops ocellatus, (0.2-0.8 g). Changes in plasma glucose concentrations were used as general indicators of stress, and changes in plasma chloride concentrations were used as indicators of osmoregulatory dysfunction. Hematocrit dynamics were also monitored. Net confinement (for up to 9 hours) and transport (from 6 to 10.5 hours) caused elevated plasma chloride concentrations and decrease hematocrit. Changes in plasma glucose concentrations in net confined and hauled fish were not consistant. Fifty percent cumulative mortality was observed after 9 hours of net confinement. Almost no mortality occurred during transport. After net confinement and transport, fingerlings (apparently active and healthy) were placed into recovery troughs and were observed for four days. Seventy percent cumulative mortality was observed in fingerlings from 9 hours of net confinement. Thirty five percent mortality was observed in fingerlings following transport. Fingerling red drum, subjected to short term stressors, such as standard hauling and stocking procedures, generally respond well, but some may die shortly after removal of the stressors.
Description
Keywords
fish culture, fishes, red drum
Citation
Caldwell, C.A. (1985). Stocking and handling-induced stress in hatchery-reared fingerling Red drum (Unpublished thesis). Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.